Web hosting is a service that enables individuals and businesses to store and publish their website files on an internet-connected server. The server then serves those files to web users upon request.
When selecting a web hosting service for your website, it is essential to take into account factors like speed, bandwidth, and support. There are plenty of options to choose from – it’s up to you which plan works best for your requirements.
Domain names
Domain names are fundamental elements of the World Wide Web. They allow people to visit websites and can be an excellent tool for building your online presence.
Domain names are user-friendly versions of IP addresses that computers use to locate, send and retrieve information from one another. Since these seemingly random words and numbers form such an integral part of the Internet, you must select a domain name that’s easy to remember and spell correctly.
Domains are purchased from organizations known as registrars, who collaborate with multiple registries to register these unique computer-friendly addresses. They then sell these to companies or individuals who want to use them for their websites or businesses. Registrars manage customer interactions and payments, keeping track of who owns which domains.
Storage space
Web storage, or disk space as some companies refer to it, refers to the amount of space on a server that website owners can utilize for their websites. It stores HTML files, images, and audio files as well as log files and other types of files essential to running an effective online presence.
The amount of web space a website requires depends on the type and size of content uploaded. Text files, for instance, typically use only a few kilobytes per page.
However, multimedia content such as videos and photos requires much more storage space. That is why it is essential to select a web hosting plan with enough storage for your site’s growth.
Other types of files that take up space on your web server include database software and any applications you may add to your website, such as shopping carts, contact forms, secure payment processing, and traffic logs.
Bandwidth
Bandwidth is one of the key factors affecting your website hosting performance. It enables you to deliver data quickly to visitors and minimize loading times.
Bandwidth can also assist in managing your website traffic. For instance, if it suddenly surges, you may need to upgrade to a larger bandwidth plan to guarantee that your site stays online and doesn’t experience any downtime.
Calculating the optimal bandwidth requires taking into account several factors. These include page size, monthly visitors, and average page views per visitor.
Once you know how much bandwidth your website requires, you can purchase a hosting package with the appropriate quota. However, never opt for an inadequate plan as this could cause your site to run slowly or crash altogether. Furthermore, look for a scalable provider who can increase your bandwidth as needed.
Security
Selecting a web hosting company that takes your website’s security seriously is essential for safeguarding your business, site, and customers. Malicious attacks can disrupt operations on the ground, cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars in damages, and undermine customer confidence.
Although there are no specific security measures that make one host better than another, several elements contribute to the overall security of a hosting plan. Here are some of the most essential factors to consider:
SSL certificates protect your visitors’ data when sent over the internet, preventing anyone from intercepting it and understanding it. This protects them against identity theft as well as other cybercrimes.
Many hosting companies utilize Transport Layer Security (TLS) encryption to safeguard sensitive data, such as bank account details and customer info. This prevents third parties from intercepting and reading this info, potentially leading to lost sales or a damaged reputation.
Some hosts also back up their data to separate servers from yours, making it simpler to restore in case of server failure. Be sure to inquire about these features when signing up for a hosting plan.
